Leading Lady is a premiere intimate apparel company dedicated to creating comfortably functional, remarkably affordable, stylish and easy-to-wear bras, camis and sleepwear. A family owned and operated business, Leading Lady has been expertly tailoring nursing and full figure bras for top brands and retailers across North America for more than 70 years. Leading Lady’s comprehensive line of nursing and full figure intimates – including sexy stretch lace wire-free and underwire bras, supportive and seamless sport and yoga bras, and cozy sleep and leisure bras – can be purchased directly on LeadingLady.com.
Leading Lady is proud to celebrate “Leading Ladies” everywhere through its products, programs and philanthropic activities. Leading Lady is dedicated to arming new moms with the support – physically, intellectually and emotionally – they need to nurture their babies through breastfeeding and committed to supporting a variety of organizations and issues relevant to women across the country.
I was offered the chance to take one of Leading Lady’s bras for a test drive. I selected the Leading Lady’s Scalloped Lace Underwire Full Figure Bra in black. My first impression out of the bag was, it’s soft. So many bras are harsh vices not for comfort but for holding every thing in place. Though it does have under-wire, I did not notice it at all. It was very comfortable and allowed all the needed movement you would hope a bra to have. I am really pleased with comfort and quality this bra!
Leading Lady’s Scalloped Lace Underwire Full Figure Bra
Here is a look at the styes of bras Leading Lady offers for Full Figured women such as my self.
Here is a look at what Leading Lady offers in the Nursing Bra section.
And so it has begun. The itch to get out of this town and visit some where foreign, well maybe not another country. I really want to go to the beach. I will take the Texas beach if that is all I can get.
So the search began yesterday morning. Google has been helpful although sometimes misleading. “$120 a night for a 4 bedroom condo with a view of the beach”. To only find out it should have been $1200 a night.
I love the beach! The kids love walking on the beach, picking up seashells and playing in the water. I simply enjoy not having a plan, waking up in the morning watching the sun rise over the surf while drinking my coffee. If I were not on a tight budget I would be there right now!
Specialties include carne asada ($13.99) and chicken mole ($12.99); chicken chimichangas ($10.99) and grilled hamburgers ($7.99) round out Tex-Mex offerings. See the menu.
Jalisco’s Restaurant & Bar
At Jalisco’s Restaurant & Bar, the orange-tinged walls and sparkling lights of a spacious, high-ceilinged dining area enhance the aromas of authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex fare. The pale, textured colors evoke a pastoral sunrise as guests, stationed at one of the tables, booths, or bar seats of the dining room or on the outdoor patio, enjoy entrees such as beef fajitas, chicken mole, or enchiladas poblanas. Jalisco’s steak tops a rib eye with homemade sauce and grilled veggies, and the campechana cocktail mixes shrimp and octopus with tomatoes, cilantro, and avocado. While patrons sink into the fare, occasional live music from mariachi bands or guitar-singer soloists pulls minds to a Mexican pueblo to relax in a hammock or cannonball into one of the many pools of melted cheese.
If you’re close to me, you know that I have very little me time. I’m lucky to get my hair cut twice a year, and I’m sure 90% of the moms reading this feel the same way. Between work, kids, husband and house, I have found a way to get by with little sleep. It’s called being Mom. If I do find time to do something it’s almost always with one or both of my kids. Have you ever had your eyebrows waxed with a 6-year-old quizzing you, “What are they doing? Does that hurt? When can we go? I need to go to the bathroom…” It’s not fun.
That’s why I was really excited to hear about Waterston Salon! They’re located in downtown Austin on Guadalupe Street. They offer a full line of services from cut, color & style. They just recently started on-site daycare! Yes, that’s right. They will watch your children while you have some me time. This is the ONLY salon that I know of that offers this service. What piece of mind: with your children playing in a room just a few feet away from you while you’re able to relax and get that much needed cut and color.
By Artist Jason Stone & Casey Baker, this mural is on the back wall at Waterstone Salon
After finding this out, I had to give Waterstone Salon a try for myself. I will admit, I was a little worried about the parking situation since Guadalupe Street is really busy. As I drove up, I saw an entrance in the middle of the building, so I took it. It was a parking garage! Free parking for the patrons of the business located in this building. I was able to park just feet from the entrance of Waterstone Salon.
Everyone at Waterstone Salon was very warm and welcoming. My children went into the playroom with AP (I think that was her name). She was really nice and my children really enjoyed her company along with the baby she watched while they were in there as well.
The stylist who worked on me was Ziggy. With a combination of interesting conversation and a lot of color, he was able to transform me from drab, washed out, Mama to a more edgy and youthful Mama. At least that’s how I felt when I left.
I am really happy with the whole experience at Waterstone Salon, and I think you will too!
About Waterstone Salon
Waterstone Salon is located on Guadalupe Street across from the Wheatsville Coop, we have a convenient location and covered parking.
We’re parents too, Lucca is 3 now and a bundle of energy, and Leona is 9 months and crawling as fast as she can to keep up with her big brother. We know how hard it is to find time to yourself. At Waterstone Salon, our focus is on you! And now, with our On-Site Babysitting service, Moms (and Dads!) can take back some of that hard earned “me-time”.
Relax in the hands of our skilled stylists knowing your precious little one is having as much fun as you are. In our Kids Playroom, catering to boys and girls from newborn to 10, we have books, toys, movies, Wii video games, and even a Styling Station for all the little girls who want to get their hair done like Mommy!
On-Site Babysitting services are currently available Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 AM to 2 PM. The hourly rate is $9 per child and $5 per hour for each additional child. Please book your child when booking your hair service to ensure availability.
Disclosure: I received no compensation for this publication. My opinions are my own and may differ from those of your own. Central Texas Mom is not responsible for sponsor prize shipment.
The other day we had a family get together at my brother’s house. We were sitting at the pool watching the kids swim and as the sun was moving, the shade wasn’t. I was starting to get burned on my shoulder. My sister in law sprayed some sunscreen that was just sitting there on me. First it smelled like she opened a bottle of rubbing alcohol second, it felt like she sprayed me down with an extra strong hairspray. It made me think, do I really want to put this stuff on my kids? What about your kids?
I am really happy to say I found a better, more healthy alternative. KINeSYS Sunscreen is oil, PABA, alcohol, and preservative-free. It is hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic. It provides UVA/UVB protection and has vitamin E to scavenge free radicals. It is dermatologist tested for all skin types and can be used on young children.
So, basically it is not bad for you, it does not stink and you hardly feel it! What more could you ask for? My kids are fans now. They love that they do not feel icky. And I love that they are still getting the protection the deserve with out all the bad chemicals.
School is out and Greg is ready for the days of summer, when all his plans go wrong. What on earth is he going to do all summer?
On Tuesday I had the privilege to go to an advanced screening in Austin that Gofobo hosted. I was lucky enough that they provided passes for both my children and me.
This movie was so much more than I had expected. Greg, the main character is just like any other kid, when summer comes he just wants to play games and be left alone. But that is not what ends up happening.
From the moment the movie started to the end the whole theater was laughing! It was really amazing to be a part of the collective happy laughter. This movie is a breath of fresh air vs the children’s shows I have been forced in to watching all summer. (Fred…. need I say more?) This is a movie I would happy to have in my DVD collection.
Not only is this a great kid movie, but a great family movie as a whole. I think each family member could find a moment or two in this movie relatable.
I highly recommend taking the whole family to see Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days.
Discover Your Inner Sparkle with the TWINKLE TOES: THE MOVIE on DVD launch parties this weekend!
In celebration of TWINKLE TOES: THE MOVIE on DVD, select malls across the countrywill host this special event on Saturday, August 4th from 12-4pm where kids of all ages will have the opportunity to participate in several fun activities and receive free promotional items. In addition to a coloring sheet area, attendees can bedazzle a pink tote bag, get a temporary Twinkle Toes tattoo and even participate in a dance lesson from a local dance troupe on-site. The events are free and open to the public. Participating malls include:
North Point Mall – 1000 North Point Circle Alpharetta, GA 30022
Kids of all ages can embark on a Dr. Seuss-inspired journey during a special event
Come take a walk through the colorful, captivating world of Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax at select Simon malls throughout the country this weekend on Saturday, August 4, 2012.
In celebration of the August 7 Blu-ray™ and DVD release of DR. SEUSS’ THE LORAX, Simon Kidgits Club® invites kids for a celebration of non-stop family-focused festivities. Families are encouraged to get creative and enjoy an imaginative adventure by participating in the following Seussian-inspired activities, all taking place in a familiar Simon mall setting:
Create and take home intriguing Truffula Trees, just like those featured in the movie, and a Lorax mustache to commemorate the charming creature.
Interact with vibrant costumed characters from The Lorax during an entertaining meet-and-greet session
Visit a viewing area to watch The Lorax movie trailer, learn how to draw the Lorax through a bonus feature on the Blu-ray™/DVD, and hear about how the Lorax speaks for the trees.
Pose for a fascinating photo next to Lorax-themed standees, capturing the fun of the unique event
Kids will also have the chance to participate in interactive offerings which are focused on preserving the environment and celebrating The Lorax’s meaningful plot. Young attendees can join the Pitch-In Recycle Game to learn about the benefits of recycling and get involved in the Seed of Hope activity to craft a Lorax planter. Before departing the event, all childrenwill pledge to care for the environment and take home a certificate to honor their positive promise.
The following Simon malls will be hosting this event:
Shops @ Mission Viejo (Upper Level, Next to Play Area) -555 Shops @ Mission Viejo, Mission Viejo, CA 92691; 10am – 12pm
I was recently contacted by ad agency in Austin called Tilted Chair Creative. They are working with a company called Healthy Mom Happy Mom to produce a series of workout programs specifically targeted for moms. They are really excited about this product and the potential benefits it represents for moms.
They are looking for some of Austin’s fit moms to be cast members in the workout videos. They have found their lead talent, a dynamic personal trainer at Austin’s Castle Hill Fitness, but we still need to identify 6-12 moms who could play supporting roles in the various workout videos.
Barton Creek Resort & Spa is located in the hill country just on the outskirts of Austin. When you hear the word Resort, I’m sure the last thing that would come to your mind would be bats. That is what makes this experience quite a different one.
About Barton Creek Resort & Spa
A destination unto itself, the Barton Creek Resort & Spa spans 4,000 acres of land seven miles from downtown Austin. This eco-friendly, relaxing oasis caters to all types. Families travel here for the abundance of activities and spacious suites. Business travelers love the pro golf courses and elegant meeting space. Couples on romantic getaways find pleasure in the upscale dining options and relaxing spa.
Highlights
Relaxing, on-site spa with a variety of treatments
11,000-square-foot fitness center
Four championship golf courses and one miniature golf course
Tennis courts
Outdoor and indoor pools and kids club
Location
The hotel is located on 4,000 acres in Texas Hill Country, seven miles west of downtown Austin.
Rooms
The Barton Creek Resort & Spa contains luxurious, modern rooms filled with a palette of sage, cream and buttercup alongside warm, espresso-hued furniture with touches of southern charm including wall art depicting local flora and fauna. Tower rooms deliver elegance, starting with rich hardwood floors in the entryway, enhanced lighting and luxurious linens. Upgrade to a room with a French balconette and enjoy stunning views of the Texas night sky. High-speed Internet access is available in all rooms.
Features
Four championship golf courses, pools, fitness classes and an array of other activities keep all types of visitors busy while staying at the Barton Creek Resort and Spa. Take the family on a geocaching adventure at Barton Creek, hit golf balls at the 18-hole miniature golf course or explore local flora on the Barton Creek Nature Trail. After spending time with the family, parents can relax for a bit while the little ones join the kids club. Choose from five dining establishments onsite, from casual to upscale and romantic eateries. Valet parking is available (fees apply).
Spa
Unwind at Three Springs Spa at Barton Creek Resort, a quiet oasis with soft lighting and the soothing sound of spring water trickling over a limestone wall. Try the signature treatment, appropriately named rainfall, or stick with one of the standards like a deep tissue or stone massage. The 11,000-square-foot fitness center offers exercise classes, state-of-the-art equipment and personal training.
Central Texas Mom at Barton Creek Resort & Spa
Barton Creek Resort & Spa has valet parking as an option or you can park yourself and walk. We knew we would be going in and out so we opted to self-park. There is a small parking garage that you can use. But it does stay pretty full most of the time.
Check-in was painless and the staff there is very nice and welcoming. After check-in we went up to our room on the 3rd floor. The room we had did not have a balcony, but they say it’s a beautiful view.
Our room had 2 full-sized beds. They were really comfortable! On of of the beds we found 2 mints and a robe. A 42″ inch plasma television with quite a few channels as well as many pay per view options. There was also a mini frig stocked with sodas, wine, candy and such-they called this a refreshment center. There is also a Nintendo® for the kids. They do have WIFI, but it is not free.
The package we had is called Batty in Austin Family Package.
Austin, Texas is home to many unique sights, but none as “weird” as our downtown bats! Join us this summer as we visit the largest urban bat colony in North America, and watch 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge. Book our “Batty in Austin” family package and receive:
•Room accommodations •Daily breakfast for family of 4 •Transportation to and from the Congress Avenue Bridge •”Bat Gear” for the kids (sunglasses and 1 camera per adult) •”Batty in Austin” Family Package
Offer valid through August 31, 2012.
After having an early dinner we met at the concearge for our ride to Congress Bridge to see the bats. I suggest you get there about 7:20 and let them know that you are ready. They will get a driver for you. Our driver was Jason and he was really nice. Also, plan ahead. If you get car sick easy make sure you take something. The road has a lot of curves and ups and downs. I took Dremamene before we left. He provided us with his phone number and instructed us to call him when we were ready to leave. The park they drop you off at is really nice. There were a lot of people there, a lot of families and children. It was very peaceful. You should bring a blanket and some drinks. We did not know that so we were not really prepared.
There are some street vendors there with an outfit called Ice Cream of Destiny, that were selling bottled water and ice cream. We bought water from them for $3 and HAD to take a picture lol.
There is a wall you can sit on or the grass. A lot of people brought lawn chairs & blankets.
It was exciting to see all the bats. First you could faintly hear the bats and then it got louder and louder. Then you saw a trickle of bats come out from under the bridge. Slowly more and more came out from under the bridge.
In the morning we had an amazing breakfast buffet. They had anything you could imagine someone would eat for breakfast. They even had an area where you could order and watch your eggs being made. They called it an omlett station, but my daughter ordered a fried egg. This was the best buffet breakfast I have ever had!
After a delicious breakfast we went out to the pool to enjoy some of the morning sun and let the kids get wet. The staff came around and handed out cups of ice water which I thought was great! They have a very nice full sized pool, a kiddo pool and a hidden hot tub with waterfalls behind it. Very pretty. (I did not take a picture of the pool because there were people and children in it, and I try to respect other’s privacy. You can see pictures of the pool on the Barton Creek Resort And Spa website.)
From the pool area you can see the putt-putt golf area. It looked really cool! I wish we had been able to try it out, but we ran out of time.
We had a wonderful time at Barton Creek Resort and Spa. I wish I could have had more time to take advantage of all that there was to do there! It was beautiful and the staff could have not have been nicer. It was an amazing experience!
For more information about Barton Creek Resort And Spa visit:
Disclosure / Disclaimer: No monetary compensation was obtained for this post. I received a complimentary product to facilitate this review. The opinions expressed here are mine and may differ from yours.
I think this is a really great deal! You get eight color portrait sheets (a $144 value) plus a photo shoot at Picture People, valid at the Barton Creek Square Mall location in Austin and the Lakeline Mall location in Cedar Park. Photo sheets include eight sheets total of the same image, with one 10″x13″, one 8″x10″, four 5″x7″s, ten 4″x6″s, and 16 wallet photos divided among them.
